Rock Springs Campground
05 reviews265 Highway 20 South Hines, OR 97738
Rock Springs Campground
$6.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$6.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are $6 per night for a single-site unit. For additional vehicles, a $3 nightly fee applies. Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single campsite fees when occupying the site themselves. Payment is accepted in cash or check only.
About this campground
Hidden among towering ponderosa pines in the heart of Malheur National Forest, Rock Springs Campground offers an intimate escape into Oregon's pristine wilderness. This peaceful retreat features thoughtfully spaced sites beneath a cathedral-like canopy of mature evergreens, where dappled sunlight filters through ancient branches. Whether you're seeking a restful overnight stop on your journey or planning an extended stay in nature's embrace, this tranquil haven provides the perfect basecamp for forest adventures.
Rock Springs Campground is tailored for traditional camping experiences with its secluded tent and primitive campsite offerings. The campground lacks modern amenities, making it ideal for those seeking a rustic environment.
Historical SignificanceFor decades, Rock Springs has remained one of Oregon's best-kept secrets, whispered about in local circles but rarely appearing in tourist guides. Since at least 1989, generations of hunters have returned each autumn, drawn by both tradition and the promise of deer season success. This campground carries the stories of countless campfires and the quiet wisdom of those who know that the best places are often the ones unmarked on mainstream maps.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps campers on their toes at Rock Springs, where mountain weather can shift from sunshine to storm in a heartbeat. Winter transforms the campground into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping below freezing and snow blanketing the forest floor. Summer brings golden days perfect for exploration, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 85°F during the warmest afternoons. Pack layers and be ready for anything – the forest has its own agenda.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet above sea level, Rock Springs sits in that sweet spot where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and summer heat becomes a distant memory. This mountain elevation creates an ideal climate for hiking, wildlife watching, and escaping the sweltering valleys below. The thin air invigorates outdoor adventures while offering naturally cooler temperatures that make for comfortable camping even in mid-summer.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic ponderosa pines stand like ancient sentinels throughout the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and towering presence creating a natural sanctuary. While the forest floor remains clear of dense undergrowth, the generous spacing between sites ensures a sense of solitude and privacy. Just beyond the treeline, Poison Creek Reservoir sparkles like a hidden jewel, adding the gentle music of water to the forest's symphony of wind through pine needles.
Geological RegionRock Springs Campground rests within the vast tapestry of Malheur National Forest, where Oregon's volcanic past meets its forested present. This corner of the state showcases the rugged beauty of the inland Northwest, with ponderosa pine forests stretching across ancient lava flows and weathered ridgelines. The proximity to Poison Creek Reservoir adds an aquatic element to this terrestrial paradise, creating a diverse ecosystem where forest meets water in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are described as wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as secluded and spacious enough to accommodate visitors. Parking aprons are gravel, indicating ample room for vehicles.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as secluded, with fair to good privacy provided by the mature ponderosa pines and lack of understory vegetation.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are recommended for their shade and privacy among the ponderosa pines; however, the lack of understory vegetation may be a consideration for some.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site typically accommodates up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two loops with 12 sites tucked among the trees.
Open and Closed SeasonServices are provided from May 25 through November 1, depending on weather conditions. Campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsSites are primarily first-come, first-serve; reservations may be available through Malheur National Forest platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available, typically filling during hunting season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, particularly suited for fishing, hiking, and hunting. Horseback riding is also mentioned as an option on nearby trails.
Hiking
Visitors can explore local trails such as the Malheur River Trail #303 and the Craft Cabin Trail #319. Specific trail details, such as lengths and difficulty levels, are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is available at Poison Creek Reservoir. No additional details about fish types or fishing quality are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campers should adhere to local fire safety regulations; fire restrictions may apply seasonally.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThere is no potable water available; campers must bring their own water. Wildlife may pose a risk, and rapid weather changes require preparedness.
Active alertsNo active alerts are listed.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Burns, OR, which has hospitals and police stations. Additionally, visitors can contact the Emigrant Creek Ranger District Office for assistance during operational hours.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 25 - November 1
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash, including cigarette butts, cans, bottles, and food waste, as the campground follows a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.
Proximity to water featuresPoison Creek Reservoir is nearby, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome campers have noted the lack of potable water since the spring water source was removed.
HostHost information is not provided.
Campground Map
265 Highway 20 South Hines, OR 97738
Driving directionsFrom Burns, OR, travel east on US Highway 20 approximately 2.8 miles to US Highway 395 north. Turn right onto US Highway 395 north toward John Day, OR. Follow US Highway 395 for approximately 30.8 miles to the junction with Forest Road 17. Turn right onto Forest Road 17, travel 4.8 miles to the junction with Forest Road 054. Follow Forest Road 054 for approximately 1 mile, the campground will be on the right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads (US Highway 20 and 395) and unpaved Forest Roads 17 and 054. Seasonal closures may apply depending on weather conditions.Nearby places
Burns: 33 miles (~45 minutes), John Day: null
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Burns, OR, approximately 33 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Rock Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the campground's peaceful and secluded setting. Many users appreciate its simplicity and rustic charm, especially for hunting trips and quiet retreats.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great camping experience ❤️" and "Nice peaceful campground." The secluded nature and quiet environment are consistently praised by visitors.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
"It used to have great spring water, but that has long since gone," reflects disappointment in the lack of potable water.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Prepare to bring all necessary supplies, including water and trash bags, as the campground follows a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground sees light use except during big game hunting seasons, when it becomes busier. The weather can be rapidly changing, as noted in official guidance.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We have been camping there almost every deer season since 1989." - Tim Shields; "Great place to get away with no hookups or water." - Tim H.
Based on 5 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
There are no specific reviews tied to individual campsites within the two loops.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility experiences, but the vault toilets are noted as wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pets or pet-related features.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025